Rabbi H. M. Bien. The Feast of Lights, or, Chanukoh. Three Character Poems and Grand Tableau Finale, Containing the Story of the Book of Maccabeans. Designed for Presentation by Sabbath Schools and Y.M.L.A.

(AMERICAN JUDAICA).

Vicksburg, Mississipi

1885

The author is celebrated for his composition of another work in this particular dramatic genre, a Hagadah for Passover, entitled “Easter Eve” (1886). Sold Kestenbaum & Company, Sale 53 lot 25. The present text is most creative - of uncommon interest see p. 19 wherein poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow is quoted. The author, Herman Milton Bien (1831-95) immigrated to America in 1854 and worked as a rabbi, teacher, merchant and journalist. In 1863 he was elected to the Nevada state legislature. After leaving his position as rabbi of Cong. Anshei Chesed in Vicksburg, Mississippi and following his subsequent rejection from another pulpit, Bien committed suicide.